Multiple-sprocket arrangement for a bicycle gearing

ABSTRACT

A multiple-sprocket arrangement for mounting on a rear wheel axle arrangement of a bicycle is provided. The multiple-sprocket arrangement includes a sprocket assembly having a plurality of sprockets of different sizes, and/or different numbers of teeth, disposed along an axis of rotation, for example of the rear wheel axle arrangement. The sprocket assembly includes a torque transmitting section configured to transmit torque to a hub sleeve, the torque transmitting section disposed along a first length of the rotation axis, and at least two sprockets having a smaller inner diameter than an outer diameter of the hub sleeve, the at least two sprockets formed as a separate piece, or pieces, from other sprockets of the plurality of sprockets and positioned over a second length along the rotation axis, the second length distinct from, and disposed outboard of, the first length.

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/358,266, filed Nov. 22, 2016, which is a divisional of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/334,120, filed Jul. 17, 2014, which claimspriority to German Patent Application No. DE10 2013 012 066.7, filedJul. 19, 2013, the contents of which are referenced herein in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a multiple-sprocket arrangement provided formounting on a rear wheel axle of a bicycle. The invention furtherrelates to a rear wheel axle arrangement for a bicycle provided withsuch a multiple-sprocket arrangement.

Multiple-sprocket arrangements for bicycle gearings on rear wheel axlesare usually mounted rotatably on the rear wheel axis of a bicycle bymeans of a drive mechanism and a bearing arrangement. The drivemechanism meshes with a hub sleeve in a torque transmitting manner bymeans of a freewheel clutch and allows for torque transmission in onerotational direction (drive direction), whereas in the other direction,the drive mechanism is rotationally decoupled from the hub sleeve inorder to provide freewheeling. In highly developed bicycle gearings, asalready used in professional cycling as well as by recreationalcyclists, the number of sprockets increases constantly. To some extent,relatively large increments but particularly also relatively smallincrements are used in order to allow for an optimal gear ratio forriding on flat terrain or in a group with constant cadence. In bothcases, i.e. when narrow increments with small gear ratio jumps areprovided or large increments are to be provided, there is an increasingdemand for very small sprockets, i.e. sprockets with 10 teeth or less.However, such small sprockets can no longer be mounted on a conventionaldrive mechanism.

In DE 10 2011 107 162 A1, a multiple-sprocket arrangement is providedwith a drive mechanism which has a section with reduced outer diameter.The section of the drive mechanism with reduced outer diameter isprovided with a male thread with which an adapter provided with a femalethread can be screwed to the drive mechanism. At least one sprocket withan inner diameter which is smaller than the outer diameter of the drivemechanism is thus connectable with the drive mechanism using theadapter.

Further prior art can be found in the documents EP 1 342 657 B1, DE 20116 764 U1, EP 0 834 450 B1, and DE 10 2011 103 489 A1.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The problem addressed by the invention is that of providing amultiple-sprocket arrangement which has small sprockets but a simpledesign and low weight. Furthermore, the problem addressed by theinvention is that of specifying a rear wheel axle arrangement for abicycle provided with such a multiple-sprocket arrangement.

The problem is solved by a multiple-sprocket arrangement with thefeatures of the devices set out in the claims. For example, in anembodiment a multiple-sprocket arrangement for mounting on a rear wheelaxle arrangement of a bicycle is provided. The multiple-sprocketarrangement includes a sprocket assembly having a plurality of sprocketsof different sizes, and/or different numbers of teeth, disposed along anaxis of rotation, for example of the rear wheel axle arrangement. Thesprocket assembly includes a torque transmitting section configured totransmit torque to a hub sleeve, the torque transmitting sectiondisposed along a first length of the rotation axis, at least twosprockets having a smaller inner diameter than an outer diameter of thehub sleeve, the at least two sprockets formed as a separate piece, orpieces, from other sprockets of the plurality of sprockets andpositioned over a second length along the rotation axis, the secondlength distinct from, and disposed outboard of, the first length, and areceiving body disposed radially inward of the sprocket assembly andconfigured to secure the at least two sprockets to the hub sleeve, thereceiving body including a threaded attachment configured to attach tothe hub sleeve at a position along the rotation axis inboard of thesecond length.

Further embodiments of the invention are described in the dependentclaims.

A multiple-sprocket arrangement provided for mounting on a rear wheelaxle of a bicycle has a receiving body which is designed for mounting onthe rear wheel axle and to which individual sprockets of themultiple-sprocket arrangement can be attached. For example, thereceiving body can have a sleeve-like design and be designed to beconnected to a hub sleeve.

The element denoted herein as “hub sleeve” is frequently also called“drive mechanism” in the field of bicycle technology.

The multiple-sprocket arrangement further comprises a sprocket assemblywith a first sprocket, the inner diameter of which is greater than theouter diameter of the receiving body. The first sprocket is connected tothe receiving body. For example, the first sprocket can be connected tothe receiving body in the region of an outer circumference of thereceiving body by means of a connecting device provided in the region ofthe inner circumference of the first sprocket. The sprocket assembly isradially supported by the receiving body. The sprocket assembly isradially supported by the receiving body in the region of the innercircumference of the first sprocket. At least in this region, the firstsprocket is in contact with the receiving body.

The sprocket assembly further comprises at least one second sprocket,the inner diameter of which is smaller than the outer diameter of thereceiving body. The second sprocket is designed in an unsupported mannerand connected to the receiving body by means of the first sprocket.

In other words, with the sprocket assembly of the multiple-sprocketarrangement, there is no direct connection between the at least onesecond sprocket of the sprocket assembly and the receiving body.Instead, the at least one second sprocket is designed in an unsupportedmanner and coupled with the receiving body merely by means of the firstsprocket.

Preferably, the first sprocket has a greater number of teeth than the atleast one second sprocket and, as seen in the direction of the rearwheel axle, is arranged adjacent to the at least one second sprocket ata defined distance from the at least one second sprocket. Furthermore,the first and the at least one second sprocket can be designed as onepiece. Alternatively, the first sprocket and the at least one secondsprocket can also be connected to one another by means of retainingbolts or other connecting means. For connecting the first sprocket withthe adjacent second sprocket, a first flange section or a retaining boltextending parallel to the rear wheel axle can be provided. Inparticular, the first flange section or the retaining bolt can extendbetween a shoulder of the first sprocket which faces the at least onesecond sprocket and a shoulder of the at least one second sprocket whichfaces the first sprocket. As a result, the first flange section alsodetermines the distance of the first sprocket from the at least onesecond sprocket.

The above-mentioned and claimed diameter selection of the first andsecond sprocket allows for a secure fastening of the first sprocket onthe receiving body and to span the receiving body at the front, whereinthe second sprocket is thus arranged axially in front of the receivingbody and correspondingly small, i.e. it can be designed with a smallerdiameter than the receiving body.

Since the at least one second sprocket has a smaller inner diameter thanthe first sprocket, the distance from the first flange section to theinner circumference of the first sprocket, in radial direction, ispreferably shorter than to an inner circumference of the at least onesecond sprocket. The first flange section can be designed in the form ofcontinuous ring in order to particularly firmly connect the firstsprocket to the at least one second sprocket. However, it is alsoconceivable to provide the first flange section with cutouts in order toreduce the weight of the sprocket assembly.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the multiple-sprocketarrangement, the sprocket assembly comprises two second sprockets, i.e.,two sprockets with smaller diameters are arranged “axially upstream” ofthe first sprocket. However, if desired, the sprocket assembly can alsocomprise more than two second sprockets with correspondingly smallerouter diameter. In a sprocket assembly with two second sprockets, thetwo second sprockets preferably have a different number of teeth,wherein the second sprocket with the greater number of teeth ispreferably arranged between the second sprocket with the smaller numberof teeth and the first sprocket of the sprocket assembly. The at leasttwo second sprockets can be connect with one another using separateconnecting means. For example, the connecting means can be retainingbolts or similar retaining means. The two second sprockets of thesprocket assembly can be connected with one another by means of a secondflange section extending parallel to the rear wheel axle. The retainingmeans or the second flange section can preferably extend between twoshoulders of the two second sprockets facing one another. As a result,the axial distance between the two second sprockets is determined by theconnecting means or the second flange section. As mentioned above, theconnecting means can be retaining bolts.

Furthermore, spacers can be provided between adjacent sprockets of thesprocket assembly. The spacers can adjust a predetermined distance inaxial direction between the first sprocket and the second sprocket andbetween the two second sprockets. The spacers can be designed so as tobe annular and bear against axial surfaces of adjacent sprockets. Thespacers can be connected to the retaining bolts or are held by theretaining bolts between the adjacent sprockets of the sprocket assembly.For such purpose, the spacers have recesses for receiving the retainingbolts at least in sections.

In principle, it is conceivable that the two or more second sprocketshave different inner diameters. In particular, the second sprocket withthe lower number of teeth can have a smaller inner diameter than thesecond sprocket with the greater number of teeth. In radial direction,the distance from the second flange section to an inner circumference ofthe second sprocket with the greater inner diameter is shorter than thedistance to an inner circumference of the second sprocket with thesmaller inner diameter.

However, alternatively, it is also conceivable to provide the sprocketassembly of the multiple-sprocket arrangement with two second sprocketswhich have the same inner diameters. The second flange sectionpreferably connects the inner circumference surfaces of the two secondsprockets. Similar to the first flange section, the second flangesection can also be designed in the form of a continuous ring in orderto firmly connect the two second sprockets. However, it is alsoconceivable to provide the second flange section with cutouts in orderto reduce the weight of the sprocket assembly.

The first sprocket of the sprocket assembly can be provided with asnap-in protrusion in the region of its inner circumference. As seen inthe direction of the rear wheel axle, the snap-in protrusion can bewider than the first sprocket itself. In order to realize such aconfiguration, the first sprocket is preferably provided with a thirdflange section which preferably extends parallel to the rear wheel axlein a direction which is facing away from the at least one secondsprocket to a shoulder of the first sprocket facing away from the atleast one second sprocket. The snap-in protrusion can thus be providedon an inner circumference surface of the third flange section. However,it is also conceivable to provide the third flange section with cutoutsin order to reduce the weight of the sprocket assembly.

In the region of its outer circumference, the receiving body can beprovided with a locking groove preferably designed for meshing with thesnap-in protrusion of the first sprocket. When the snap-in protrusionprovided on the first sprocket meshes with the locking groove of thereceiving body, the first sprocket and thus the entire sprocket assemblyis connected to the receiving body. Such a snap-in locking device allowsfor a particularly simple mounting of the sprocket assembly on thereceiving body.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the sprocket assembly orthe first sprocket can be connected to the receiving body by means of aretaining element arranged on the receiving body. For example, theretaining element can be a retaining ring. The retaining ring can bereceived by a retaining groove in the receiving body. The retaininggroove can be delimited by two retaining collars which can be providedon the outer circumference of the receiving body. The retaining ring canextend around the outer circumference of the receiving body.

Furthermore, the receiving body can be firmly connected to the firstsprocket of the sprocket assembly. In such case, the receiving body canhave a multi-piece design. The receiving body can be axially secured onthe hub sleeve by means of a retaining element. For example, theretaining element can be screwed to the hub sleeve for fastening thereceiving body.

However, it must be expressly stated that the present invention is alsoused for solution which have no tubular receiving body but in which thetorque is transmitted directly from the sprocket assembly to a hubshell, as, for example, described in the prior art according to DE 102011 103 489 A1 by the applicant. Express reference to said document ismade at this point.

In one embodiment, the multiple-sprocket arrangement can comprise atleast one further sprocket which is connected to the sprocket assemblyby means of at least one retaining bolt which extends parallel to therear wheel axle. The further sprocket and the sprocket assembly areconnected in a torque transmitting manner by means of a (first)retaining bolt connecting the at least one further sprocket with thesprocket assembly.

The further sprocket can be formed and connected to the sprocketassembly by means of a first retaining bolt extending parallel to therear wheel axle such that its inner circumference is arranged at adistance from the outer circumference of the receiving body. The furthersprocket can thus have an inner diameter which significantly exceeds theouter diameter of the receiving body and a particularly lightweightdesign. This allows for a further reduction of the overall weight of themultiple-sprocket arrangement. Furthermore, providing the receiving bodywith corresponding bearing and fastening devices for atorque-transmitting connection of the further sprocket to the receivingbody can thus be foregone. As a result, the receiving body can also havea simpler and more lightweight design.

The retaining bolts extending parallel to the rear wheel axle can engagein receiving bores provided in the corresponding sprockets. This resultsin a secure and lightweight torque-transmitting connection between thefurther sprocket and the sprocket assembly.

The multiple-sprocket arrangement can further comprise at least onesecond retaining bolt extending parallel to the rear wheel axle, withwhich an additional sprocket is connected to the further sprocket andconnected in a torque-transmitting manner to the sprocket assembly bymeans of the further sprocket.

This additional further sprocket, similar to the further sprocket, canbe formed and connected to the further sprocket by means of the at leastone second retaining bolt extending parallel to the rear wheel axle suchthat its inner circumference is arranged at a distance from the outercircumference of the receiving body. The additional sprocket, whichpreferably has a greater number of teeth than the further sprocket, canalso be designed so as to be particularly lightweight.

The at least one second retaining bolt extending parallel to the rearwheel axle engages preferably in receiving bores provided in theadditional sprocket and the further sprocket, thus creating a secure andlightweight connection between the additional sprocket and the furthersprocket.

A development of the invention provides that the retaining bolts arearranged radially in a region within a tooth tip of the next smallestsprocket. The retaining bolt is thus connected to the appropriatesprocket in a region which provides sufficient material for securing theretaining bolt and transmitting the forces generated during torquetransmission.

If necessary, the multiple-sprocket arrangement can comprise any numberof further sprockets which each can have any number of teeth. Eachfurther sprocket can be connected to further sprockets axially adjacentin the direction of the sprocket assembly and eventually connected tothe sprocket assembly, i.e. the first sprocket of the sprocket assembly,by means of at least one corresponding retaining bolt in order toprovide a torque-transmitting connection between the further sprockets.Each further sprocket can be formed and connected to a further sprocketaxially adjacent in the direction of the sprocket assembly by means ofthe at least one retaining bolt such that its inner circumference isarranged at a distance from the outer circumference of the receivingbody. The further sprockets are supported by the receiving body by meansof the sprocket assembly. Particularly the first sprocket of thesprocket assembly is used for radial support since it is connected tothe receiving body. Torque is transmitted between the sprocket assemblyand the hub sleeve by means of the sprocket with the greatest number ofteeth or the sprocket with the largest diameter. Such sprocket isconnected in a torque-transmitting manner with the hub sleeve. Forexample, the hub sleeve can have external teeth which mesh withcorresponding internal teeth of the largest sprocket.

A rear wheel axle arrangement, according to the invention, for a bicyclecomprises a rear wheel axle designed to be mounted on a bicycle frame.The rear wheel axle arrangement further comprises a hub sleeve rotatablymounted on the rear wheel axle. An above described multiple-sprocketarrangement of the rear wheel axle arrangement acts together with adrive chain. Lastly, the rear wheel axle arrangement is provided with atorque transmission arrangement for directionally selectivelytransmitting a torque from the multiple-sprocket arrangement to the hubsleeve in order to realize a freewheel function.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following, examples of embodiments of the invention are describedin further detail using the attached schematic drawings. The drawingsshow:

FIG. 1 is a section of a multiple-sprocket arrangement for mounting on arear wheel axle of a bicycle according to a first embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 2 is a cutaway view of a sprocket assembly of the multiple-sprocketarrangement according to FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cutaway view of a sprocket assembly according to the firstembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the multiple-sprocket arrangementaccording to the first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement accordingto the first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a further perspective view of the multiple-sprocketarrangement according to the first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a further cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangementaccording to the first embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 8-10 a, 10 b, 10 c are views of a sprocket assembly according to asecond embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a multiple-sprocket arrangementaccording to the second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement accordingto the second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the multiple-sprocket arrangementaccording to the second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 14 is a further cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangementaccording to the second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15a-c are views of a sprocket assembly according to a thirdembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a multiple-sprocket arrangementaccording to the third embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 17 is a cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement accordingto the third embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a multiple-sprocket arrangementaccording to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 19 is a cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement accordingto the fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a further perspective view of the multiple-sprocketarrangement according to the fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 21 is a cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement accordingto the fourth embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 22, 23 are views of a sprocket assembly according to a fifthembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a multiple-sprocket arrangementaccording to the fifth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 25 is a side view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement according tothe fifth embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 26 is a cutaway view of a multiple-sprocket arrangement accordingto a sixth embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 depicted in FIGS. 1 to 7 comprises areceiving body 12 designed for mounting on a not depicted rear wheelaxle. In particular, the receiving body 12 is provided to be mounted ona hub sleeve 14 by means of a torque transmission arrangement (also notdepicted) for directionally selectively transmitting a torque from themultiple-sprocket arrangement 10 to the hub sleeve 14. In drivedirection, the torque transmission arrangement allows for a transmissionof a torque from the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 to the hub sleeve14. However, in a rotational direction opposite to the drive direction,the torque transmission arrangement rotationally decouples themultiple-sprocket arrangement 10 from a not depicted hub shell,realizing a freewheel function.

A sprocket assembly 16 of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 (see alsoFIG. 2), which in the following will be described in detail, comprises afirst sprocket 18, a second sprocket 20, and a further second sprocket22. The first sprocket 18 has a greater number of teeth than the secondsprocket 20. However, the second sprocket 20 has a greater number ofteeth than the further second sprocket 22. The sprocket assembly 16 isdesigned as one piece, i.e. the first sprocket 18, the second sprocket20, and the further second sprocket 22 are designed integral with oneanother.

The first sprocket 18 has an inner diameter which is greater than anouter diameter of the receiving body 12 and is connected to thereceiving body 12. By contrast, the two second sprockets 20, 22 eachhave an inner diameter which is smaller than an outer diameter of thereceiving body 12. Both second sprockets 20, 22 are designed in anunsupported manner, i.e. they are not directly connected in atorque-transmitting manner to the hub sleeve 14. Instead, atorque-transmitting connection is provided between the two secondsprockets 20, 22 and the receiving body 12 by means of the firstsprocket 18 of the sprocket assembly 16 and the adjacent sprocketcluster 34, as shall be described in the following in further detail.

The sprocket assembly 16 has a first flange section 24 designed in theform of a continuous ring which extend parallel to the rear wheel axlebetween the first sprocket 18 and the second sprocket 20. In particular,the first flange section substantially extends perpendicularly toshoulders of the first sprocket 18 and the second sprocket 20 positionedopposite each other, wherein a distance of the first flange section 24from an inner circumference of the first sprocket 18 is shorter than adistance of the first flange section 24 from an inner circumference ofthe second sprocket 20.

The second sprocket 20 and the further second sprocket 22 have the sameinner diameters. A second flange section 26 which is also designed inthe form of a continuous ring and, similar to the first flange section24, extends parallel to the rear wheel axle and substantiallyperpendicularly to shoulders of the two second sprockets 20, 22positioned opposite each other, connects an inner circumference surfaceof the second sprocket 20 with an inner circumference surface of thefurther second sprocket 22.

For the radially supporting connection of the sprocket assembly 16 withthe receiving body 12, the first sprocket 18 is provided with a thirdflange section 28 which extends parallel to the rear wheel axle in thedirection facing away from the two second sprockets 20, 22 in the regionof the inner circumference of the first sprocket 18 from a shoulder ofthe first sprocket 18 facing away from the two second sprockets 20, 22.The third flange section 28 is also designed in the form of a continuousring. A snap-in protrusion 30 is provided in the region of an innercircumference surface of the third flange section 28 which meshes with alocking groove 32 provided in the region of an outer circumference ofthe receiving body 12. The snap-in locking device formed by the snap-inprotrusion 30 and the locking groove 32 allows for a secure axialconnection of the sprocket assembly 16 with the receiving body 12without excessively increasing the weight of the sprocket assembly 16.

A further sprocket 34 of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 has agreater number of teeth than the first sprocket 18 of the sprocketassembly 16. The further sprocket 34 is connected to the sprocketassembly 16, i.e. the first sprocket 18 of the sprocket assembly 16, bymeans of a plurality of first retaining bolts or pins 36 which extendparallel to the rear wheel axle. The first retaining bolts each engagein receiving bores 30, 40 provided in the further sprocket 34 and thefirst sprocket 18 of the sprocket assembly 16. The further sprocket 34and the hub sleeve 14 are connected in a torque-transmitting manner bymeans of the sprocket assembly 16 or the first sprocket 18 of thesprocket assembly 16. Lastly, the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 has aplurality of second retaining bolts 42 extending parallel to the rearwheel axle. The second retaining bolts or pins 42 are provided toconnect an additional sprocket (FIG. 6), which has a greater number ofteeth than the further sprocket 34, to the receiving body 12 by means ofthe further sprocket 34 and the sprocket assembly 16. The furthersprocket 34 can be formed in a weight-saving manner such that its innercircumference is arranged at a distance from the outer circumference ofthe receiving body 12. The second retaining bolts 42 engage in receivingbores 44 provided in the further sprocket 34 and the receiving bores ofthe not depicted additional sprocket, thus providing a securetorque-transmitting connection between the additional sprocket and thefurther sprocket 34.

It is understood that the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 can compriseany number of further sprockets 34 which each can have any number ofteeth. Each further sprocket can be connected to further sprocketsaxially adjacent in the direction of the sprocket assembly 16 andeventually to the sprocket assembly 16, i.e. the first sprocket 18 ofthe sprocket assembly 16, by means of at least one correspondingretaining bolt. Each further sprocket can be formed and connected to afurther sprocket axially adjacent in the direction of the sprocketassembly 16 by means of the at least one retaining bolt such that itsinner circumference is arranged at a distance from the outercircumference of the receiving body 12. This applies to all furthersprockets 34 except for the sprocket with the greatest number of teethor the largest diameter. Said sprocket is connected directly and in atorque-transmitting manner to the hub sleeve 14, as shall be describedin the following in further detail.

FIG. 3 shows a cutaway view of the sprocket assembly 16 with the firstsprocket 18 and the two second sprockets 20 and 22. The first sprocket18 is connected to the second sprocket 20 by means of the flange section24. The second sprocket 20 is connected to the sprocket 22 by means ofthe flange section 26. Retaining bolts 36 are arranged on the firstsprocket 18 and used for connecting to the further sprocket 34 (FIG. 1).A flange section 28 is provided on the first sprocket 18. The flangesection 28 has the snap-in protrusion 30 which is designed in the formof a continuous ring and axially connects to the receiving body 12 (FIG.1). The snap-in protrusion 30 secures the sprocket assembly 16 in axialdirection on the receiving body 12.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10according to the first embodiment similar to FIG. 1.

The multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 comprises the receiving body 12,the hub sleeve 14, and the sprocket assembly 16. The sprocket assembly16 is held on the receiving body 12 by means of the snap-in protrusion30. The snap-in protrusion 30 meshes with the locking groove 32 on thereceiving body 12 in order to secure the sprocket assembly 16 in axialdirection of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 on the receiving body12 or the hub sleeve 14. The locking groove 32 is delimited by twosnap-in noses 32 a and 32 b for receiving the snap-in protrusion 30between said snap-in noses 32 a and 32 b. Following the snap-in nose 32a, the receiving body 12 comprises s cylindrical section 46. When thereceiving body 12 is slipped over the hub sleeve 14, the cylindricalsection 46 joins the receiving body 12 with a cylindrical section 48 ofthe hub sleeve 14. In other words, an inner circumference surface of thecylindrical section 46 of the receiving body 12 and an outercircumference surface of the cylindrical section 48 of the hub sleeve 14act together for guiding the receiving body 12. The cylindrical section46 of the receiving body 12 is followed by a section with a femalethread 50. A section 52 with a male thread is provided on the hub sleeve14. The receiving body 12 can be screwed to the hub sleeve 14 by meansof the threaded sections 50 and 52. The cylindrical sections 46 and 48of the receiving body 12 and the hub sleeve 14 act as guide, and so thereceiving body can be screwed to the hub sleeve 14 without jamming.

Between its front side 14 a and the male threaded section 52, the hubsleeve 14 has external teeth 54 for torque transmission between asprocket arrangement (not depicted in FIG. 4), comprising the sprocketassembly 16, and the hub shell 14. This shall be described in thefollowing in further detail.

In the region of the end face 14 b of the hub sleeve 14 and a shoulder14 c provided on the hub sleeve 14, a body 56 can be seen which is madeof an elastomer or plastic. The body 56 is connected to the receivingbody 12 or attached to the receiving body 12. The body 56, for example,can be produced by overmolding the receiving body 12 with an elastomeror plastic. On the right end of the receiving body 12 in FIG. 4, thebody 56 forms an outer circumference surface section and an innercircumference surface section. The body 56 forms an annular sheathingfor said section of the receiving body 12. The body 56 also extends intothe locking groove 32. The body 56 radially and axially positions thereceiving body 12 on the hub sleeve 14. Furthermore, the body 56radially supports the sprocket assembly 16 on the receiving body 12 orin the locking groove 32.

The receiving body 12 comprises guide noses 58 which extend radiallywithin the second sprockets 20 and 22 and can be used for guiding anaxle or hub section.

FIG. 5 shows a further cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement10.

The sprocket assembly 16 is held on the receiving body 12 by the lockinggroove 32 with its two snap-in noses 32 a and 32 b. The body 56 axiallyand radially positions the receiving body 12 on the hub sleeve 14 andradially supports the sprocket assembly 16. The receiving body 12 isscrewed to the hub sleeve by means of the threaded sections 50, 52. Theouter teeth 54 transmit torque between the hub sleeve 14 and a sprocketarrangement comprising the sprocket assembly 16.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10.

The multiple-sprocket arrangement 10 comprises the sprocket assembly 16which is part of a sprocket arrangement RA. In addition to the sprocketassembly 16 with the sprockets 18, 20, and 22, the sprocket arrangementRA comprises a plurality of further sprockets 34 ₁ to 34 ₈. As can beseen in FIG. 6, the sprockets 34 ₁ to 34 ₈ are connected to one anotherusing retaining bolts 42. Moreover, the sprocket 34 ₁ is connected tothe sprocket assembly 16 or the first sprocket 18 by means of theretaining bolts 36. The bolts 36 and 42 transmit torque between theindividual sprockets 34 ₁ to 34 ₈ and transmit torque between thesprocket assembly 16 and the sprocket 34 ₁.

The torque is transmitted from the sprocket assembly RA to the hubsleeve 14 by means of the sprocket 34 ₈. For such purpose, the largestsprocket 34 ₈ is connected to the hub sleeve 14. The sprocket 34 ₈ hasinternal teeth (not depicted) which are provided complementary to theexternal teeth 56 on the hub sleeve 14. The sprocket 34 ₈ is held inaxial direction in its predetermined position on the external teeth 54by means of the receiving body 12. For such purpose, the receiving body12, with its front side opposite the guide noses 58, bears against thesprocket 34 ₈ in the region of the inner circumference of the sprocket34 ₈.

FIG. 7 shows a cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10.

The sprocket assembly 16 is connected to the sprocket 34 ₁ by means ofthe bolts 36. The sprockets 34 ₁ to 34 ₈ are, once again, connected toone another using retaining bolts 42. The bolts 36 and 42 extendparallel to the central axis of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 10.The bolts 36 and 42 transmit torque between the individual sprockets 34₁ to 34 ₈. The torque is transmitted from the sprocket 34 ₈ to the hubsleeve 14 by means of the internal teeth of the sprocket 34 ₈ whichmeshes with the external teeth 54 on the hub sleeve.

In the following, further embodiments of the invention shall bedescribed with reference to the attached drawings. Similar or similarlyoperating features are denoted with the same reference signs butpreceded by a further digit.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the sprocket assembly 116 with thesprockets 118, 120, and 122 according to a second embodiment.

According to this embodiment, the sprockets 118, 120, and 122 areconnected to one another using bolts 160 and 162. For such purpose, thesprockets 120 and 122 have receiving openings 164 and 166 for receivingthe bolts 160, 162. Once again, a flange section 128 is provided on thefirst sprocket 118 which is provided with the snap-in protrusion 130.The receiving openings in the first sprocket 118 receive thecorresponding bolts 162, wherein the receiving openings in the firstsprocket 118 are not depicted in FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 shows a cutaway view of the sprocket assembly 116.

The sprockets 118, 120, and 122 are connected to one another usingconnecting bolts 160 and 162. The bolts or pins 160 extend between thesprockets 120 and 122. The bolts or pins 162 extend between thesprockets 120 and 118. The bolts or pins 136 are provided on the firstsprocket 118 for connecting with further sprockets. The sprocket 118 hasthe flange section 128 with its snap-in protrusion 130.

FIG. 10 shows various views of the sprocket assembly 116 according tothe second embodiment.

FIG. 10A corresponds to FIG. 9, and therefore a detailed description ofFIG. 10A is foregone in order to avoid repetitions.

FIG. 10B shows the components of the sprocket assembly 116 in adisconnected state.

According to the second embodiment, the sprockets 118, 120, and 122 aredesigned as separate sprockets which are connected to one another usingthe bolts or pins 160 and 162. Furthermore, the bolts 136, which areused for connecting further sprockets, can be inserted in the sprocket116.

FIG. 10C shows a perspective view of the sprocket assembly 116 in adisconnected state.

The sprocket 122 has receiving openings 164 for the bolts 160. In turn,the bolts 160 can be inserted in receiving openings 168 in the sprocket120. The receiving openings 166 in the sprocket 120 receive the bolts162. The bolts 162 connect the sprocket 120 with the sprocket 118. Thereceiving openings 170 in the sprocket 118 receive the bolts 162.Furthermore, the sprocket 118 has receiving openings 138 which receivethe bolts 136. The bolts 136 can connect the sprocket assembly 116 withfurther sprockets.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement110 with the sprocket assembly 116.

The essential difference between the first embodiment according to FIGS.1 to 7 and the second embodiment according to figures up to 12 is thatof the sprockets 118, 120, 122 of the sprocket assembly 116 beingconnected to one another using bolts 160 and 162.

The receiving body 112 and the hub sleeve 114 are identical with thereceiving body 12 and the hub sleeve 14 according to the firstembodiment.

In order to avoid repetitions, another detailed description of thereceiving body 112 and the hub sleeve 114 is foregone and reference ismade to the description with regard to the first embodiment.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show that all sprockets 118, 120, 122, 134 ₁ to 134 ₈are connected to one another using the bolts 136, 142, 160, and 162. Thetorque transmission between the sprocket arrangement RA and the hubsleeve 114 is identical to the first embodiment.

FIG. 15 shows various views of a sprocket assembly 216 according to athird embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15a shows the sprocket assembly 216 with its sprockets 218, 220,and 222. The sprockets 218, 220, and 222 are connected to one anotherusing bolts (FIG. 15b ). A spacer 272 is arranged between the sprockets218 and 220. A further space 274 is arranged between the sprockets 220and 222.

FIG. 15b shows the components of the sprocket assembly 216 in adisconnected state.

The sprockets 218 and 220 are connected using the bolts 262. A spacer272 is provided between the sprockets 218 and 220 which is designed soas to be annular. The spacer 272 is held between the sprockets 218 and220 using the bolts 262. A further spacer 274 is arranged between thesprockets 220 and 222 which is designed so as to be annular and is heldbetween the sprockets 220 and 222 using the bolts 260.

FIG. 15c shows a perspective view of the components of the sprocketassembly 216 in a disconnected state.

The spacers 272 and 274 have semicircular recesses 276 and 278 which, insections, can receive the bolts 262 and 260. The recesses 276 and 278are provided on the outer circumference surfaces of the annular spacers272 and 274. In a connected state, the spacers 272 and 274 are heldbetween the corresponding sprockets 218, 220, and 222 using the bolts260 and 262 and thus adjust a predetermined axial distance between thesprockets 218, 220, and 222.

FIGS. 16 and 17 show perspective views of the multiple-sprocketarrangement 210 with the sprocket assembly 216.

The only difference to the previously described second embodiment arethe spacer rings 272 and 274 which are provided between the sprockets218, 220, and 222 of the sprocket assembly 216 and thus provide an axialdistance between the sprockets 218, 220, and 222. The spacer 272 adjustsa predetermined axial distance between the sprocket 218 and the sprocket220. The spacer 274 determines the axial distance between the sprocket220 and the sprocket 222.

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a multiple-sprocket arrangement 310according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

The sprocket assembly 316 corresponds to the sprocket assembly 116according to the second embodiment.

According to this embodiment, the sprocket assembly 316 is held in axialdirection on the receiving body 312 by means of a retaining ring 380. Aretaining groove 332 with retaining collars 332 a and 332 b receives theretaining ring 380 which bears against the flange section 328 of thefirst sprocket 318 with its axial surface 380 a. In other words, theaxial surface 382 of the retaining ring 380 is in contact with an axialsurface 384 of the flange section 328 or the sprocket 318.

The retaining collar 332 a radially supports the sprocket 318 or thesprocket assembly 316. The sprocket 318 bears against the retainingcollar 332 a with its protrusion 318. The elastomer body 356 is providedon the receiving body 312 and axially and radially positions thereceiving body.

FIG. 19 shows a cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 310.

The retaining groove 332 receives the retaining ring 380 which is heldon the receiving body 312 by means of the retaining collars 332 a and332 b. With its axial surface 382, the retaining ring 380 bears againstthe axial surface 384 of the sprocket 318. The retaining collar 332 aradially supports the sprocket 318 or the sprocket assembly 316.

FIGS. 20 and 21 show views of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 310 withthe sprocket arrangements 358. The sprocket assembly 316 is part of thesprocket arrangement RA. Similar to the previously describedembodiments, the torque between the sprocket arrangement RA and the hubsleeve 314 is transmitted by means of the sprocket 334 ₈. FIGS. 20 and21 show the retaining ring 380 which secures the sprocket arrangement358 on the receiving body 312 in axial direction.

FIGS. 22 and 23 show a sprocket assembly 416 according to a fifthembodiment of the invention.

The sprocket assembly 416 most closely corresponds to the sprocketassembly 16 which was described in conjunction with FIGS. 1 to 7. Thesprockets 418 and 420 are connected to one another by means of theflange section 424. The sprockets 420 and 422 are connected to oneanother by means of a further flange section 426. A flange section 428is provided on the sprocket 418, wherein, according to this embodiment,no protrusion is provided on the flange section 428. Instead, thisembodiment has a snap-in protrusion 486 on the flange section 426. Thesnap-in protrusion 486 extends radially inward in the form of a prong.

FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement410 with the sprocket assembly 416. In the region of its guideprotrusions, the receiving body 412 is provided with a locking groove432. The locking groove 432 is delimited by a snap-in nose 432 a and asupport section 432 b. The locking groove 432 receives the snap-inprotrusion 486 on the flange section 426 and axially secures thesprocket assembly 416 on the receiving body 412. The first sprocket 418is connected to the receiving body 412 by means of the elastomer body456.

The locking groove 432 is arranged in front of the axial front side 414b of the hub sleeve 414, i.e. in an unsupported manner in front of thehub sleeve 414 b.

FIG. 25 shows a cutaway view of the multiple-sprocket arrangement 410according to the fifth embodiment of the invention.

The sprocket arrangement 416 is connected to the receiving body 412 bymeans of the elastomer body 456 on the receiving body 412. The firstsprocket 418 is connected to the receiving body 412 by means of theelastomer body 456. The sprocket assembly 416 is secured on thereceiving body 412 by means of the snap-in protrusion 430 on the flangesection 426 which meshes with the locking groove 432.

FIG. 26 shows a cutaway view of a multiple-sprocket arrangement 510according to a sixth embodiment.

The sprocket assembly 516 according to this embodiment is, once again,formed by the sprockets 518, 520, and 522 which are connected to oneanother using the bolts 560 and 562.

According to this embodiment, the receiving body 512 has a multi-piecedesign and radially supports the sprocket arrangement 558. The receivingbody 512 is formed by a first section 512 a and a second section 512 b.The second section 512 b is designed so as to be one piece with thesprocket 518 of the sprocket assembly 516. The sprocket assembly 516 isthus connected to the receiving body 512 by means of the first sprocket518. A section 552 with a male thread is provided on the hub sleeve 514.A retaining element 586 comprises a female thread and can be screwed tothe male threaded section 552. The receiving body 512 or the section 512a of the receiving body has a support shoulder 588 for the retainingelement 586. The receiving body 512 can be axially tensioned with thesprocket 534 ₈ by means of the retaining element 586 and thus be securedon the hub sleeve 514. The sprocket arrangement RA with the sprocketassembly 516 can be fastened to the hub sleeve 514 by means of theretaining element 586.

The individual sprockets 518, 520, 522, 534 ₁ to 534 ₈ are connected toone another using the bolts 536, 542, 560, and 562.

The section 512 a of the receiving body 512 extends, in sections,conically in the direction of the sprocket 534 ₈. The sprocket 534 ₈transmits torque between the sprocket arrangement RA and the hub shell514. For such purpose, the sprocket 534 ₈ has teeth corresponding to theexternal teeth 554 on the hub shell 514.

The embodiment according to FIG. 26 is characterized in that theexternal teeth 554, a radial support point and a section 552 with a malethread are arranged in sequence in axial direction on the hub sleeve514.

We claim:
 1. A multiple-sprocket arrangement for mounting on a rearwheel axle arrangement of a bicycle, comprising: a sprocket assemblyhaving a plurality of sprockets of different sizes disposed along anaxis of rotation of the rear wheel axle arrangement, the sprocketassembly including: a torque transmitting section configured to transmittorque to a hub sleeve, the torque transmitting section disposed along afirst length of the rotation axis, at least two sprockets having asmaller inner diameter than an outer diameter of the hub sleeve, the atleast two sprockets formed as separate pieces from other sprockets ofthe plurality of sprockets and positioned over a second length along therotation axis, the second length distinct from, and disposed outboardof, the first length, and a receiving body disposed radially inward ofthe sprocket assembly and configured to secure the at least twosprockets to the hub sleeve, the receiving body including a threadedattachment configured to attach to the hub sleeve at a position alongthe rotation axis inboard of the second length.
 2. The multiple-sprocketarrangement of claim 1, wherein the at least two sprockets aretorque-transmittingly connected to one another.
 3. The multiple-sprocketarrangement of claim 1, wherein the receiving body radially supports theat least two sprockets.
 4. The multiple-sprocket arrangement of claim 1,wherein the receiving body includes a nose configured to secure the atleast two sprockets to the hub sleeve.
 5. The multiple sprocketarrangement of claim 1, wherein the torque transmitting section includesinternal teeth.
 6. The multiple sprocket arrangement of claim 1, whereinone of the at least two sprockets has ten (“10”) or fewer teeth.
 7. Themultiple sprocket arrangement of claim 1, wherein the at least twosprockets are connected to the other sprockets by a first flange sectionextending substantially parallel to the rear wheel axle.
 8. The multiplesprocket arrangement of claim 7, wherein the at least two sprockets areconnected to one another by a second flange section extending parallelto the rear wheel axle.
 9. The multiple sprocket arrangement of claim 8,wherein the first flange section and the second flange section areconfigured to transmit torque from one or both of the at least twosprockets having a smaller inner diameter than an outer diameter of thehub sleeve to at least one of the other sprockets of the plurality ofsprockets.
 10. The multiple sprocket arrangement of claim 7, wherein thefirst flange is a continuous ring.
 11. The multiple sprocket arrangementof claim 1, wherein spacers are provided between adjacent sprockets ofthe sprocket assembly.
 12. The multiple sprocket arrangement of claim 1,wherein the at least two sprockets are connected to the receiving bodyby a retaining element disposed on the receiving body.
 13. The multiplesprocket arrangement of claim 1, wherein the at least two sprockets areconnected to the sprocket assembly in a torque-transmitting manner. 14.The multiple sprocket arrangement of claim 13, wherein the at least twosprockets are connected to at least one other sprocket of the pluralityof sprockets in a torque-transmitting manner.
 15. A multiple-sprocketarrangement for mounting on a bicycle, comprising: a sprocket assemblyhaving a plurality of sprockets having different respective numbers ofteeth, the plurality of sprockets disposed along an axis of rotation,the sprocket assembly including: a torque transmitting sectionconfigured to transmit torque to a hub sleeve, the torque transmittingsection disposed along a first length of the rotation axis, at least twosprockets having a smaller inner diameter than an outer diameter of thehub sleeve, the at least two sprockets formed as a separate piece fromother sprockets of the plurality of sprockets and positioned over asecond length along the rotation axis, the second length distinct from,and disposed outboard of, the first length, and a receiving bodydisposed radially inward of the sprocket assembly and configured tosecure the at least two sprockets to the hub sleeve, the receiving bodyincluding a threaded attachment configured to attach to the hub sleeveat a position along the rotation axis inboard of the second length. 16.The multiple-sprocket arrangement of claim 15, wherein the at least twosprockets are torque-transmittingly connected to one another.
 17. Themultiple-sprocket arrangement of claim 15, wherein the receiving bodyradially supports the at least two sprockets.
 18. The multiple sprocketarrangement of claim 15, wherein the at least two sprockets areconnected to the receiving body by a retaining element disposed on thereceiving body.
 19. The multiple sprocket arrangement of claim 15,wherein one of the at least two sprockets has ten (“10”) or fewer teeth.20. The multiple sprocket arrangement of claim 15, wherein the at leasttwo sprockets are connected to the other sprockets by a first flangesection extending substantially parallel to the axis of rotation.